WBS - Tenant Guide & Checklist Germany

Many people in Germany who are entitled to social housing wonder whether a move with a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is possible and sensible. As a tenant you should know exactly what opportunities and limits the WBS offers: it facilitates access to subsidised housing but is tied to income limits and regional regulations. In this guide I explain in plain language which formalities are important when moving, which official forms you need and how to plan accessible options. There are practical tips on notice periods, deposit rules and communication with the landlord, as well as guidance on when legal steps may become necessary at a local court. This helps you, as a tenant in Germany, to be better prepared and make a confident decision.

WBS and moving: advantages and limits

The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) often secures access to subsidised housing, but it does not automatically replace any obligations to the landlord. Housing rights and landlord duties arise from the German Civil Code (BGB)^[1], while funding rules and entitlement conditions are regulated in the Housing Promotion Act (WoFG)^[2]. Many cities require specific proofs for the WBS application at the authority; therefore clarify early which documents are necessary. Sample letters for ordinary termination can be found as examples at the Federal Ministry of Justice.BMJ

Checklist for moving with WBS

• Check the notice period (usually 3 months) and terminate in writing on time.
• Clarify deposit and payment modalities; have bank statements ready as proof of rent payments.
• Submit or renew the WBS application at the responsible authority and keep the confirmation of receipt.
• Arrange a handover appointment and prepare a handover protocol with photos.
• Order necessary tradespeople for repairs and document defects before handover.
• Register with the residents' registration office within the required deadline.

FAQ

Can I move into any social housing with a WBS?

No. The WBS entitles you to seek subsidised housing, but concrete access depends on regional allocation criteria and available flats. Allocation offices and funding rules are governed by the WoFG.^[2]

Which deadlines must I observe when moving?

Important deadlines include the notice periods of the tenancy agreement, usually three months, and registration deadlines at the residents' registration office. In case of disputes, the local court may be competent.^[3]

Which official forms do I need?

Key forms are: WBS application at the local authority, registration form for the residents' registration office and, if necessary, a termination letter template. Keep confirmations of receipt as proof to present to the landlord.

How-To

1. Check your eligibility for a WBS at the responsible authority and gather required documents.
2. Complete the WBS application and submit it with income proofs.
3. Plan notice periods and inform the landlord in writing with proof.
4. Organise transport and helpers and make an inventory list for the handover.
5. Perform an in- and out-handover protocol and document the condition with photos.
6. Complete registration, utilities and mail forwarding in time.

Key Takeaways

• Observe deadlines: plan termination and registration periods early.
• Submit complete forms and keep confirmations of receipt.
• Documentation (photos, protocols) protects your rights in disputes.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB: Landlord obligations (§§535–580a)
• WoFG: Housing Promotion Act and WBS rules
• Federal Court of Justice: case law on tenancy

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
3. [3] Justizportal Deutschland: Information on local courts